Studio Manager

About the role

A well-established and growing architecture practice in Oxford is seeking a proactive and highly organised Studio Manager to play a central role in the day-to-day running and long-term development of the studio. Reporting directly to the Directors, this varied role spans office operations, finance, HR, project coordination, and business support, and is ideal for someone who enjoys being at the heart of a creative, professional environment.

You will support the smooth operation of the Oxford office, help develop robust systems and processes, and contribute to building a positive, well-organised and inclusive studio culture.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee all office operations including facilities management, landlord liaison, office moves, repairs, cleaning contracts, supplies, and general administration
• Organise staff socials, CPDs, training sessions, work experience placements, and monthly studio events
• Manage company vehicles, insurance policies, subscriptions, memberships, and statutory compliance (PAT testing, fire risk assessments, GDPR, copyright licences)
• Act as main point of contact for IT and printer support providers; manage software, hardware and phone licences
• Manage invoicing through Fresh Projects and Xero, process supplier payments, staff expenses, and bank reconciliations
• Maintain HMRC accounts and ensure timely VAT, PAYE, pension and corporation tax submissions in liaison with external accountants
• Prepare financial reports, forecasts and project cost data; respond to client and supplier finance queries
• Support year-end accounts, payroll, P11Ds and R&D claims with external accountants
• Draft and manage employment contracts; oversee pensions, payroll changes, holidays, study leave and staff reviews
• Coordinate recruitment including advertising, CV screening and interview scheduling; maintain HR and H&S records
• Support visa processes and maintain Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) compliance
• Set up new projects, client records and contracts; manage RIBA contracts and monitor signatures
• Produce weekly project planners, analyse timesheets, and support project resourcing and budget tracking
• Support marketing, PR and business development activities, including social media coordination, Google Analytics reporting and event bookings
• Work closely with Directors on operational strategy, business planning, procedures and growth initiatives

About you

• Proven experience in office, practice or operations management within architecture, design, or professional services
• Strong financial literacy with experience using Xero, invoicing systems, VAT returns and reporting
• Confident managing HR processes including contracts, recruitment, payroll coordination and pensions
• Tech-confident with experience managing IT providers, software systems and office infrastructure
• Excellent communication skills with a collaborative and supportive working style
• Good understanding of compliance, GDPR, insurance and regulatory requirements
• Interest in business development, marketing and supporting studio growth

This role would suit a capable, hands-on Practice Manager who enjoys building strong systems, supporting people, and helping a creative studio operate at its best while continuing to grow.

We will do our very best to help you find your ideal job. Our approach is personable and we believe that your job hunting experience should be enjoyable. We look forward to hearing from you.

Please visit our website for all vacancies – https://place.co.uk/

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